The Creative Mindset

Why design apps like Canva don’t make us better designers, as read by AI.The Intersection is Rei’s weekly newsletter, exploring what the future holds at the intersection of creativity and technology. Subscribe to The Intersection to receive his latest editions directly in your inbox.Episode References:Democratization of Design | ArticleRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever struggled to help your clients change? A North Star is crucial for guiding client companies, but it’s meaningless without the underlying trust and supported by tangible practices.For this week’s episode, we welcome back Ana Andjelic, the acclaimed brand executive and author of the popular newsletter “The Sociology of Business.” With extensive experience in transforming and growing brands, Ana offers insights on what it takes to drive meaningful change within established companies and underscores the importance of “dumbly believing” in the possibility of transformation to initiate significant changes. Rei also complements her insights with examples of I&CO’s relationships with clientele leadership.Ana Andjelic is a global brand executive, author of “The Business of Aspiration” and has been recognized two times by Forbes for her CMO work. Ana specializes in building brand-driven modern businesses. She earned her doctorate in sociology and is a widely read columnist, speaker and advisor. Subscribe to her newsletter, The Sociology of Business.Timestamps:0:03 Transforming Legacy Brands Through Creativity and Technology6:34 Bridging Abstract Business Goals with Tangible Creative Solutions15:18 Challenges and Realities of Driving Organizational Change22:03 Lightning Questions26:04 The New Rules of Brand MarketingEpisode References:Ana Andjelic | NewsletterAna Andjelic | InstagramAna Andjelic | LinkedInAna Andjelic | Online PortfolioRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Reviving brands requires understanding their origin stories, injecting fresh imagination, and “an orchestrated push”, according to Ana Andjelic.On this week’s episode, we welcome the acclaimed brand executive Ana Andjelic. As the former global chief brand officer of iconic fashion brands such as Banana Republic and Esprit, Ana shares powerful strategies for reviving brands and emphasizes the importance of aligning product propositions with overarching brand concepts. The discussion also delves into the divide between brand and performance marketing and the influence of technology on perception.Ana Andjelic is a global brand executive, author of “The Business of Aspiration” and has been recognized two times by Forbes for her CMO work. Ana specializes in building brand-driven modern businesses. She earned her doctorate in sociology and is a widely read columnist, speaker and advisor. Subscribe to her newsletter, The Sociology of Business.Timestamps:0:03 Reviving Brands with Ana Andjelic1:50 Balancing Productivity Between New York and Miami4:12 Reviving Brand Identity Through Founders' Original Intentions6:46 The Imaginative Origins and Evolution of Banana Republic8:25 Reviving Banana Republic's Brand Through Strategic Decisions9:32 Imagined Worlds and Functional Maximalism in Banana Republic11:23 Balancing Brand Vision and Designer Creativity in Fashion Marketing17:39 Defining New American Sportswear Through Urban and Creative Lenses21:22 The Intersection of Performance Marketing and Brand Marketing28:49 The New Rules of Brand Marketing in a Changing Landscape32:21 The Evolution of Technology and Its Impact on Perception35:07 The Interplay of Technology, Culture, and Society in Innovation45:05 Three TakeawaysEpisode References:Ana Andjelic | NewsletterAna Andjelic | InstagramAna Andjelic | LinkedInAna Andjelic | Online PortfolioRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The framework for deploying generative AI for brands and corporations as read by Simon Osmont.The Intersection is Rei’s weekly newsletter that explores what the future holds at the intersection of creativity and technology. Subscribe to The Intersection to receive his latest editions directly in your inbox.Episode References:How to AI | ArticleSimon Osmont | WebsiteRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How do smaller AI companies stand against giant corporations with more significant resources?On this week’s episode, we welcome back Sho Rust, the Founder & CEO of SHO.AI, to discuss the future of AI-based services in an increasingly competitive industry, the intricacies of scaling a business, and how AI can enhance the work of professionals.  Sho Rust, an entrepreneur with a deep commitment to AI and design in brand content generation, has a rich professional background marked by significant contributions to the industry. His career includes roles at the United Nations, B-Reel, co-founding RAREFORM, and impactful work for brands like Disney, Google, and Nike. At the Boston Consulting Group's Digital Ventures Division, he excelled as a Lead Brand Technical Designer, skillfully blending AI with design. In 2018, he launched SHO.AI, a Generative AI platform that predates ChatGPT. This platform has been embraced by universities, global agencies, and Fortune 100 brands, revolutionizing their creative processes. Additionally, Sho dedicates his Saturday mornings to teaching at the same college he graduated from, sharing his knowledge and passion for AI and design. Timestamps:0:04 Exploring AI's Impact on Creativity and Content Creation1:25 Balancing Startup Growth, Culture, and Leadership Challenges6:03 Innovating Brand Management with AI-Driven Design8:51 Challenges and Successes in AI-Augmented Branding12:23 Empowering Humans With AI: The Superpower Synergy13:23 Harnessing AI Tools Requires Skill and Patience14:43 ChatGPT's Impact on Perception and Business Practices17:55 AI Platform Scrutiny and Competitive Pressures Intensify20:26 Tech Giants and Nations Invade the AI Island21:19 Agility and Innovation in AI Product Development24:23 Lightning Questions28:00 Three TakeawaysEpisode References:SHO.AI | Corporate SiteSho Rust | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Opportunities are everywhere. It’s just a matter of recognizing them and bringing those ideas to life.On this week’s episode, we welcome Sho Rust, the Founder & CEO of SHO.AI, to hear about his journey from studying design to starting his own AI platform for content creation. Sharing Sho’s challenges in building his own company, the discussion highlights the importance of passion, execution, and recognizing opportunities for success.Sho Rust, an entrepreneur with a deep commitment to AI and design in brand content generation, has a rich professional background marked by significant contributions to the industry. His career includes roles at the United Nations, B-Reel, co-founding RAREFORM, and impactful work for brands like Disney, Google, and Nike. At the Boston Consulting Group's Digital Ventures Division, he excelled as a Lead Brand Technical Designer, skillfully blending AI with design. In 2018, he launched SHO.AI, a Generative AI platform that predates ChatGPT. This platform has been embraced by universities, global agencies, and Fortune 100 brands, revolutionizing their creative processes. Additionally, Sho dedicates his Saturday mornings to teaching at the same college he graduated from, sharing his knowledge and passion for AI and design. Timestamps:0:04 Exploring AI's Impact on Content Creation with Sho Rust1:24 Bridging Design, Technology, and Entrepreneurship3:20 From Art to AI: A Designer's Evolution6:52 From AI Projects to Disruptive Startups at BCG9:51 Rapid Growth and Japanese Expansion10:33 Scaling Design Systems With AI Across Global Brands14:11 Early Experiments with Language Models Transforming Brand Management15:31 From Cushy Jobs to Grandma's Basement Startup18:13 Startup Challenges and the Importance of Simplification20:21 Rapid Growth and Strategic Focus in Tech Startups24:58 Three TakeawaysEpisode References:SHO.AI | Corporate SiteSho Rust | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A campaign worth numerous advertising awards doesn’t necessarily mean your community of customers will like the idea.On this week’s episode, we welcome Ginny Golden, the Executive Creative Director at YETI, to hear about YETI’s rapid revenue growth and the importance of staying true to the brand’s authenticity. Ginny shares her experience transitioning from agency-side to in-house at YETI, insights on building an in-house agency, and the value in cultivating a strong community of dedicated customers.Timestamps:0:03 From Agency Creative to Executive Director at Yeti2:38 Transitioning to Yeti for a Broader Creative Experience3:36 Transforming an In-House Creative Agency at Yeti5:26 Challenges of Onboarding and Brand Stewardship at Yeti8:12 Yeti's Multidimensional Brand and Community Authenticity11:46 Embracing Outdoor Lifestyles: From Casual to Hardcore12:33 Tensions Between Creativity and Capitalism in Corporate Culture13:32 Yeti's Growth: Brand Heart and Founders' Spirit17:32 Nike's Ethos and History Through Maxims and Booklets19:26 Crafting Artifacts to Preserve a Rapidly Growing Company's Story21:10 Yeti's Brand Growth and Marketing Strategy Discussed22:51 Unlocking Yeti's Growth Through Authenticity and Versatility25:41 Innovative Brand Building and Community Engagement at Yeti29:40 Turning Lost Gear Into Delightful Surprises30:28 Cultivating Authentic Community Connections in Marketing32:55 A Surfer, Skater, and Pitmaster's Old World Hog Hunt33:24 Authenticity as a Brand's Defining Characteristic35:52 Balancing Short-Term Demands With Long-Term Brand Strategy37:11 Lightning Questions41:51 Three TakeawaysEpisode References:YETI | Corporate SiteGinny Golden | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rei answers questions about hiring in the creative industry with guest Roy Husada. This AMA segment dives into challenges that small studios face when competing with big agencies and tech companies for talent, the importance of codifying a company’s operational principles, and practical tips such as the strategic use of in-house recruiters who understand the company’s DNA.Roy Husada comes on our show with questions as Founder & Managing Director at Rival Schools Japan, a creative agency specializing in brand localization for the Japanese market.Episode References:Rival Schools Japan | Corporate SiteRoy Husada | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is the decline of elitism of creativity inevitable? as read by Simon Osmont.The Intersection is Rei’s weekly newsletter that explores what the future holds at the intersection of creativity and technology. Subscribe to The Intersection to receive his latest editions directly in your inbox.Episode References:The Cult of Productivity | ArticleRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Offending someone by not taking the time to understand their culture can be unintentional but impactful.Rei dives deeper into the critical imperatives of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices with Darren Wesley Martin Jr. and Dr. Rubina Malik from Bold Culture. Together, they talk about detailed lessons gleaned from a firsthand collaboration between I&CO and Bold Culture, shedding light on the blind spots that hinder fostering inclusive workplaces. From unintentional offenses to impactful consequences, the discussion underscores the importance of grace, education, and open dialogue in addressing biases. Founded by Darren Martin Jr, Ahmad Barber and their independent parent company Streamlined Media & Communications (SMC) in 2016, Bold Culture was born as a response to the slew of culturally uninformed marketing messages being put out by brands and their agencies, and the apparent lack of representation and inclusion in the offices of the communication and tech industry at all levels.Bold Culture is inspired by the necessity of diversity and inclusion in the communications-tech ecosystem. How brands communicate with their consumers, how they build their products, how their products are perceived and used, are all connected to diversity, equity and inclusion. That is why Bold Culture is within the intersection of developing inclusive workplaces and ensuring inclusive marketing messages are authentically delivered.Timestamps:0:00:00　Intro0:01:20　Discussion on the specific example of cultural context in a video series0:03:41　Importance of considering styling, setting, and storytelling in representation0:05:16　Impact of harmful advertisements and the need for immediate action0:06:31　Addressing blind spots and biases in the workplace0:08:30　Common blind spots and pitfalls in diversity, equity, and inclusion0:09:35　Importance of education and grace in addressing biases0:11:16　Blind spots related to assumptions and cultural understanding0:12:49　Personal experience with a DEI officer's assumption about Ramadan0:13:16　Reflecting on how to address the situation with education and empowerment0:13:16　Diversity encompasses race, gender, ability, sexuality, and socioeconomic status.0:13:49　It is disrespectful to represent women in a stereotypical way. Education on the history of women globally is necessary.0:14:36　Calling in and calling out are two approaches to addressing bias and microaggressions.0:15:18　Calling in allows for self-correction, while calling out is a more direct approach to stopping harmful language.0:16:19　It is important to challenge harmful language and educate others about diversity.0:17:06　Offending someone by not taking the time to understand their culture can be unintentional but impactful.0:18:11　The post-affirmative action era raises concerns about future college admissions for minority students.0:19:21　Offense can be taken when assumptions are made about cultural practices. Taking an extra step to understand can make a big difference.0:20:02　It is everyone's responsibility to avoid assumptions and take the time to understand different cultures.0:22:02　Small actions can contribute to creating inclusive and equitable communication.Episode References:Bold Culture | Corporate SiteDarren Martin Jr. | LinkedInDr. Rubina Malik | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.